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Caroline Himes: No special rules for Congress

Posted:
02/26/2018 07:20:20 PM MST

In our representative form of government, it is important for our elected officials to enact laws that are thoughtful and appropriate to address the needs of our society. Such laws are best considered when the lawmakers are fully subject to the conditions of their legislation.

I would like to propose that all security screenings and regulations, such as metal detectors and prohibitions against weapons, be removed from our public buildings (national, state, and local). Those buildings such be subject to the same rules as other places of employment, shopping, theaters, restaurants, or the general environment. If our lawmakers are concerned about possible personal injury, they can enact rules regarding the types of weapons available to the general population, provide for better screening of buyers, or they can take the personal precautions they suggest for others (and pray that they aren't caught in the crossfire). Where regulations are passed, precautions can be taken to the extent they apply towards the same rules that apply outside of such buildings. No special guards should be available who aren't available to the general environment.

Such an approach should also apply to items such as medical insurance and pensions for members of Congress, and many other rules. Starting with security measures might help provide better focus on the development of laws that address the actual challenges and risks while maintaining the rights and responsibilities of the citizens. And, hey, we'd save money and time, too.

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